African Violet

African Violet Saintpaulia

Flowers: The flowers of the African violet are purple-colored and grow in clusters. They are complete flowers, and are pollinated in nature by a specific species of bee native to Africa. In households, self-pollination of the flower can occur but healthier seeds form if cross-pollination is done by insects or gardeners (http://www.ehow.com/info_12097849_type-pollination-african-violets.html).

Fruit: The fruit of the African violet is an extended seed-containing capsule that emerges after fertilization. In nature, the seeds are dispersed either by herbivores or by being carried by water (http://mamcep.org/saintpaulia_article.html).

Human Uses: Human’s use the plant mostly for decoration. The African violet is the most popular houseplant in the United States. The African violet is such a popular plant to grow because it grows best at normal room temperatures and can tolerate not being watered very frequently (http://www.ag.auburn.edu/hort/landscape/African_Violets.htm).

Interesting Facts:

– The African Violet is often referred to as “America’s favorite houseplant”.

– The hairs on the leaves help to absorb water from the atmosphere.

– The African violet can be maintained in almost constant bloom if its growth conditions are optimized with proper light, nutrients, temperature, and water.